30 December 2006 - The Daily Telegraph - Charles Starmer Smith

This archipelago off the west coast of Africa has just landed on the British holidaymaker's map - thanks to the start of direct flights last month. Just five-and-a-half hours from London, this former Portuguese colony ticks almost every box for beach-lov ers. Yet across these dozen islands and islets there is as much variety as you would find on most continents.

Cape Verde offers year-round sun (temperatures rarely stray below 25C or above 35C), rain is scarce and only the February winds are a cause for concern.

The principal islands may not yet boast the hotels, spas and world-class restaurants of winter-sun destinations such as Dubai, Thailand or the Caribbean. But while luxury is a little lacking, so is any chance of jet-lag. Cape Verde is only two hours behind Britain.

The pristine white sands and waters of Maldivian clarity on both Sal and Boavista are the main draw (for hoteliers too, judging by the scale of new developments along the coastline). But those with a taste for the unexpected should take the short flight to Fogo, the island of fire. You can climb the black slopes of its towering volcano or even stay the night at a small guesthouse within the crater.

Hot foot it from here to São Vicente to sample the culture of Mindelo, the capital and musical heartbeat of Cape Verde. The islands have long been stopping-off points for merchants and the music reflects this - from the Fado-inspired mourna and Latin funana that emerges from restaurants and bars to Caribbean reggae and American hip hop in the thumping clubs.

Finally, take the ferry to San Antão. Don't be put off by its parched landscape around the port, beyond the rising cliffs lie valleys of lush vegetation, running streams, vibrant flora and pastel-shaded towns.